The scope of physical studies--from atoms to galaxies--is well represented in the imaginative curriculum of Carleton's physics and astronomy department, as well as in the specialties of individual faculty members here. Interested students can choose from 38 regularly-offered courses. A low student-faculty ratio means many opportunities to interact with teachers.

Physics studies are centered in Olin Hall, with spacious teaching laboratories, research areas, and computer facilities. Students have ready access to modern research equipment, including extensive electronic instrumentation and laboratory computers, a high-purity-germanium gamma detector, a seven-inch laboratory electromagnet, an optical spectrograph, multipurpose diffractometer, an ultra-high vacuum system, and a cryogenic system. Staff members with electronics and computational expertise maintain the experimental and computational tools and assists assist students and faculty members with special projects. Located in adjoining Mudd Hall is the physics machine shop with the services of an experienced instrument maker. Students can participate in the Robotics Club, take AutoCAD classes, and work with various levels of research robotics, as well.